Plymouth's City Deal promises to unlock Devonport and create employment opportunities22nd January 2014

One of the major impacts of the Plymouth and South West Peninsula City Deal will be to unlock potential employment space in the city, according to Glenn Kelly of West Country commercial property specialists Bruton Knowles, who have just opened new offices in Lockyer Street, Plymouth.

Glenn Kelly, who has a strong knowledge of the market in Plymouth said: “There has been a chronic shortage of employment space and modern accommodation within the city. The City Deal offers the chance to create a vibrant marine based economy, which will have a knock-on effect for the community and local businesses.

“Bruton Knowles has opened in Plymouth for the first time in its 125 year history because of the potential Plymouth has to offer. New employment land is essential for the economy and the City Deal promises to unlock Devonport and create a lasting legacy for the city.

“Although those involved in the deal are talking a lot about it attracting new investment, it is equally important that the City Deal allows us to capitalise on the excellent skill set we have here. The signing of the City Deal will mean that Plymouth will be able to retain and keep our graduates and workforce within the city and the region.

“The City Deal promises to create 9,500 permanent jobs, unlock some eight acres of marine based employment land, which will be funded by some £34 million of local and national public sector investment.

“If the private sector also backs the deal with the £72 million expected – and there is every sign this will happen – then the business scene in Plymouth and the rest of the South West peninsula will be changed beyond measure with a vibrant new economy.”